🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 525i Chassis Code: E28 Years Covered By Manual: 1981-1988 Codes Engine Code Common: M30 Engine Displacement Common: 2.5 Liters (2494cc) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Executive Sedan Target Audience: Affluent buyers seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and durability. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz W123/W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ-S, Volvo 240/700 Series. Key Features Driving Dynamics: Renowned for its sophisticated suspension, precise steering, and balanced handling, characteristic of BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos. Powertrain Refinement: The M30 inline-six engine provided smooth power delivery and robust performance. Build Quality: Known for exceptional build quality and longevity, often considered a very durable vehicle. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Overall Coverage: Comprehensive A-Z mechanical and electrical repairs for all E28 525i models. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Varies by specific manual edition; typically 1000+ pages for a complete workshop manual. Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Printable (PDF or similar digital format implied) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (including Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic injection), exhaust system, ignition system. Engine Electrical: Ignition timing, spark plug diagnosis, engine control unit (ECU) functions, sensor testing, starter motor, alternator, battery system. Transmission: Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch service, gear selection mechanisms, torque converter, transmission fluid service. Drivetrain: Driveshafts, differential, rear axle assembly, wheel bearings. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, bushings, alignment specifications. Steering: Steering gearbox, power steering system, tie rods, steering linkage, steering column. Brakes: Brake system diagnosis, front and rear brake component replacement (discs, pads, calipers), ABS (if equipped), brake hydraulics, parking brake. Electrical System: Complete wiring diagrams, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, central locking, instrumentation, fuse box layout, relays. Climate Control: HVAC system operation, heater core, A/C system servicing (refrigerant, compressor), blower motor, climate controls. Body And Chassis: Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, exterior trim, glass replacement, chassis components. Procedures Included Maintenance Tasks: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt inspections and replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, tire rotations. Diagnostic Procedures: Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable to the era. Repair Procedures: Detailed, step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major vehicle systems. Component Overhaul: Complete engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul guides, differential rebuilds. Electrical Troubleshooting: Step-by-step troubleshooting of electrical circuits using wiring diagrams, testing components with multimeters, diagnosing sensor failures. Technical Depth Depth: Highly detailed, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Detail Level: Includes torque specifications, tolerances, diagnostic charts, and detailed illustrations. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: Likely PDF, with searchable text and high-resolution images for clarity. Print Quality Image Quality: High-quality, clear, and detailed pictures and diagrams as advertised. Binding Type Binding: If physical: Professional binding for durability in a workshop environment. Paper Type Paper Quality: If physical: Heavy-duty, possibly laminated or glossy pages to withstand workshop conditions. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: M30B25 inline-six, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 75.0 mm Performance Horsepower Approx: 168 hp (DIN) @ 5800 rpm (may vary slightly by year/market) Torque Approx: 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (may vary slightly by year/market) Fuel System Injection System: Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic electronic fuel injection Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline Engine Management Ignition System: Distributor-based electronic ignition with knock sensor control (in later Motronic versions). 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission Optional Type: ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch (for manual transmission) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4730 mm (186.2 in) Width: Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in) Height: Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 in) Wheelbase: Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 in) Weights Curb Weight Approx: 1400-1500 kg (3086-3307 lbs), depending on equipment. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Safety: E28 chassis designed with crumple zones and a reinforced safety cage; specific modern crash test ratings are not directly comparable due to era. Active Features ABS Availability: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on later models. Passive Features Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts in the front and rear. Headrests: Adjustable front and rear headrests. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Basic AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional premium sound systems (e.g., Blaupunkt). Driver Assistance ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on later models. Connectivity Early Features: Central locking, power windows, cruise control (optional). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Coolant Change: Every 2-3 years or as recommended by BMW (often 30,000 miles/50,000 km). Transmission Fluid Auto:...
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Steering gearbox, power steering system, tie rods, steering linkage, steering column.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnosis, front and rear brake component replacement (discs, pads, calipers), ABS (if equipped), brake hydraulics, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, central locking, instrumentation, fuse box layout, relays.
Climate Control:
HVAC system operation, heater core, A/C system servicing (refrigerant, compressor), blower motor, climate controls.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, exterior trim, glass replacement, chassis components.
Procedures Included
Maintenance Tasks:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt inspections and replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, tire rotations.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable to the era.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed, step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major vehicle systems.
Step-by-step troubleshooting of electrical circuits using wiring diagrams, testing components with multimeters, diagnosing sensor failures.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Highly detailed, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Detail Level:
Includes torque specifications, tolerances, diagnostic charts, and detailed illustrations.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
Likely PDF, with searchable text and high-resolution images for clarity.
Print Quality
Image Quality:
High-quality, clear, and detailed pictures and diagrams as advertised.
Binding Type
Binding:
If physical: Professional binding for durability in a workshop environment.
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
If physical: Heavy-duty, possibly laminated or glossy pages to withstand workshop conditions.
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on later models.
Connectivity
Early Features:
Central locking, power windows, cruise control (optional).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Coolant Change:
Every 2-3 years or as recommended by BMW (often 30,000 miles/50,000 km).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
BMW initially stated 'lifetime fill' for automatics, but regular fluid and filter changes (e.g., every 60,000 miles) are highly recommended for longevity.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Check level periodically, replace every 60,000-100,000 miles (100,000-160,000 km).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 is common, with 5W-30/5W-40 recommended for colder climates or modern synthetic oils. Consult manual for exact specs.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (e.g., BMW blue or green coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Hypoid gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90).
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Cooling system component failures (radiator, water pump, hoses), fuel distributor and injector issues, fuel pump wear, vacuum leaks, electrical connector corrosion, headliner sagging, seized sunroof mechanisms.
Common Issues Continued:
Worn suspension bushings, heater control valve leaks, front and rear shock absorber degradation, exhaust system rust, idle control valve issues.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, driver-focused dynamics, and premium build quality.
Model Evolution
E28 Introduction:
The E28 was the second generation of the 5 Series, introduced in 1981, succeeding the E12. It featured more modern styling and improved aerodynamics.
E28 Facelift:
A significant facelift occurred in 1985, introducing updated bumpers (often referred to as 'air dams' or 'big plastic bumpers'), improved aerodynamics, and revised interior appointments.
Production
Production Years:
1981-1988
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Dingolfing).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
General Reputation:
Widely regarded as a benchmark for sports sedans of its era, praised for its driving dynamics and build quality. Often cited in 'best cars of the 80s' lists.
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